Author Archives: Allen Astin

The Flood of Love and Peace

The blessing and fruit of regular spiritual practices like exercise, meditation, chanting, and japa is that, early in the morning after a good night’s sleep and before others have arose, the time for meditation is carved out. The eternal soul … Continue reading

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At Once

Definition of “at once”: 1) at the same time; 2) without delay. There are many people who I feel connected with and who I love deeply that have vastly different beliefs than my own. Politics and religion have very little … Continue reading

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Anna’s Passing

I am humbled at how many people have reached out to me about Anna’s passing. I haven’t seen Anna for many years and friends from high school who knew Anna, as well as many others, are all offering their condolences. … Continue reading

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U.C.L.A. from a child’s perspective

I wrote this just now for myself.  There are probably only a handful of people who have similar historic groves in their grey matter.  Regardless, I thought I’d share my little trip down memory lane for a few of my old … Continue reading

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Ginger Tea

Slice up fresh unpeeled ginger (The amount is purely the imbiber’s choice. I like my tea spicy, but not insanely spicy. Experiment.) Place ginger in a blender and cover with water, blend. If you prefer, you can slice it into … Continue reading

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Authenticity Now

How we frame each moment, how we choose to view the present, matters. This is where we have complete freedom…complete choice. How we view the present moment is our freedom and that freedom is incredibly liberating and powerful. An honest … Continue reading

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The Journey and The Destination

A man sets out on a hike through an incredibly beautiful forest. He knows that this hike culminates with a breathtaking vista overlooking the vast ocean. He knows this because he has traveled this path many times. He loves both … Continue reading

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U2 – Ordinary Love (Live on The Tonight Show)

I’ve seen this many times and I just love it. So simple and full of heart: Ordinary Love – U2The sea wants to kiss the golden shoreThe sunlight warms your skinAll the beauty that’s been lost before wants to find … Continue reading

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Alicia Keys says it all in her song “We Are Here”

We are hereWe are here for all of usWe are here for all of usThat’s why we are here, why we are hereWe are here Bombs over Baghdad, tryna get something we ain’t never hadLet’s start with a good dadSo … Continue reading

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“Smart” is not just one thing.

What I love about Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences is that it recognizes something deeply true about being human: That “smart” is not just one thing.  Take the shy kid down the block who can pick up almost any instrument and play … Continue reading

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